HealthyEats

Hot Drinks for Cold Nights

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Whip up either of these warming beverages to close out a winter's gathering or a chilly night. They're perfectly portioned to prevent the seasonal tendency to go overboard.

Peppermint Hot White Chocolate

Serves: 1

Traditional recipes for this decadent treat can easily top 500 calories -- and that's without any alcohol. Switching to a lower-fat milk and keeping the whipped cream in check brings the recipe down to about 350 calories.

8 fluid ounces 2% milk

¾ ounce white chocolate, finely chopped

2 tablespoons peppermint schnapps*

1 tablespoon fresh whipped cream

Crushed peppermint candy for serving

Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until it begins to steam. Add white chocolate and whisk well; pour into a large mug. Stir in peppermint schnapps if using and top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candy. Serve immediately.

This grown-up dessert is lower in sugar and calories than a hot-chocolate treat and has fewer calories than the average Irish coffee (which comes in at 250 to 300 calories). Keep alcohol portions modest, and there's even room for whipped cream.